Exploring The Effect of Wheat Grass Juice on Thalassaemia: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Thalassemia is a hereditary blood disorder characterized by a deficiency in the oxygen-carrying protein (haemoglobin) and a reduced number of red blood cells in the body compared to normal. Mild forms of thalassemia may not necessitate treatment, while severe cases may require blood transfusions or a stem-cell transplant from a donor. Wheatgrass extract is seen as a supplementary treatment option for thalassemia, although research in this field is still in its early stages. Wheatgrass is a low-calorie substance but rich in essential nutrients, including antioxidants like glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E that plays a crucial role in combating harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress, and providing protection against conditions such as arthritis, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. The proposed mechanism behind wheatgrass extract involves the swift absorption of chlorophyll and its action at the cellular level in the bone marrow, facilitating heme production. Treatment with wheatgrass tablets has been found to maintain serum ferritin levels and increase HbF levels in children with thalassemia who undergo frequent blood transfusions. However, it does not appear to reduce the frequency of blood transfusions required. Wheatgrass tablets also contribute to an improved quality of life for children with thalassemia. The present study aims to investigate the effectiveness of wheatgrass therapy in patients with transfusion-dependent anemia, further extensive studies involving a larger patient population would be necessary.